Jessie Bowman speaks softly, makes a big hit and lights up theopponent. The Brookhaven senior defensive tackle is the heaviesthitter for the Panthers who are ranked No. 10 in the latestAssociated Press Prep Poll.

Against McComb last Friday, Bowman sparked the Panthers with 9solo tackles and 2 assists. He electrified the King Field crowdwith a fumble recovery that he almost returned for a touchdown. Hehelped shut down McComb’s offense in the second half, limiting theTigers to just six yards.

For his performance, Bowman has been selected The DAILY LEADER’sDefensive Player of the Week for the sixth week of the 2004season.

Bowman (6-1, 305), nicknamed “Bookie,” started at offensiveguard as a sophomore. He switched to the defensive line last yearand made a huge impact, helping the Panthers to the second round ofthe state playoffs and making 100 tackles.

BHS head coach Tucker Peavey recalled Bowman’s effort againstMcComb. “Jessie was everywhere. He is highly motivated. He playsevery play full-speed. He doesn’t stop until the play is over. Hehas a lot of talent but he has the heart and attitude to go alongwith it.”

Obviously, Bowman is strong and quick. “Jessie plays withleverage,” said Peavey. “He understands the position. He is able toget his body in the positions he needs to be in.”

Bowman said he runs the 40-yard dash in 5 seconds. He wastackled from behind by McComb’s quarterback after picking up thefumble and returning it 26 yards.

Blessed with strength and quickness, Bowman bench presses 335pounds. He squats with 580 pounds and can dead lift 510.

Bowman said he enjoys playing on the kickoff teams. “When I getin on kickoff returns, you can really make some hard hits.”

Asked about his nickname, Bowman said, “My uncle (Derrick Smith)gave me that name. My momma (Barbara Herring) said he gave all hisnieces and nephews nicknames.”

The son of Jessie Bowman Sr., said Brookhaven’s defense tries toplay as one unit, like an army of one. “We play as a team.”

Bowman said the other Panthers help make the defense successful.”I think we can be real good. We must cut down on mental mistakes.We have to start and finish what we are doing.”

Working with him in the defensive line are Varris Kees and BartSias at end and Virgil Sanders at tackle. Garion Crockett relievesBowman at tackle. Bowman said defensive ends Richard Alvarado andLarry Winters enter the game “when we run a cheater (pass defense).They rush hard from the outside.”

Bowman said he wanted to mention the rest of the BHS defensivestarters. They include linebackers Darius Perkins, Eric Edwards,Marlon Dixon, Orlandas Chapman. Dixon and Chapman play Dog safety.The cornerbacks are Jerome Avery and Anthony Caffie. Safety is R.J.Jenkins.

“Our offense is doing a good job, too,” said Bowman. “I think wehave the best coaching staff in the state.”

Rod Henderson serves as Brookhaven’s defensive coordinator.Trevor Brister coaches the line and Pat Hardy the secondary.

Bowman reads offensive linemen with his hands and determinestheir blocking schemes. “I’ve improved by running my hands. I lookfor the ball and read the block with my hands.”

In the classroom, Bowman said he enjoys math. “I’m takingAlgebra II this year and it’s tough. I like Spanish class.”

Asked to say something in Spanish, Bowman said, “Dios,” meaningGod. “He has blessed me with the ability to play football.”

He attends Center Street Church of Christ.

In the spring, Bowman enjoys tossing the shot put. His bestthrow is 44 feet.

Bowman said he likes watching football on television. He favorsthe Carolina Panthers. His favorite player is Oakland Raidersdefensive lineman Warren Sapp, a former Tampa Bay All-Pro.

In his spare time, Bowman said he likes to chill out atMcDonald’s. “We hit the Mc.” His favorite meal is a doublecheeseburger with no tomato, plus French fries and a Hi-C orangedrink.

Bowman lights up King Field on Friday nights and football is hisfavorite pastime.